Summer may be in full swing, but for parents with kids in elementary, middle, or high school, back-to-school season is creeping closer. According to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics, the average family with school-aged children plans to spend around $870 this year on clothes, shoes, supplies, and electronics. While that number is slightly lower than last year's record, it's still a significant chunk of change.

The good news? You don't have to break the bank to get your kids ready for the new year. Here are some tips to help you be strategic and save money on back-to-school expenses for your elementary, middle, or high schooler:

Embrace the Early Bird

According to the National Retail Federation's annual survey (NRF.com), over half of back-to-school shoppers begin buying in July. While the frenzy might be in full swing, many families are waiting for the best deals (45%) or haven't received school supply lists yet (45%). This presents a golden opportunity. Start browsing early for price comparisons and keep an eye out for upcoming sales.

Shop Smarter, Not More

Resist the urge to replace perfectly good items just because they're last year's model. Take inventory of what your child already has and can reuse. Clothing, backpacks, and electronics in good condition can easily last another year. Encourage your child to take care of their belongings – it saves money and promotes responsibility!

Embrace the Power of Pre-Loved

Consider gently used items. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces are treasure troves for back-to-school finds. You might uncover last year's trendy clothes, barely used backpacks, and perfectly functional school supplies at a fraction of the retail price.

Team Up and Save

Join forces with friends and family. Bulk-buy items like notebooks, pens, and pencils, and split the cost for significant savings. You can also organize clothing swaps to refresh wardrobes without breaking the bank.

Maximize Rewards

Many credit cards offer bonus points or rewards programs specifically for back-to-school shopping. Consider First South Financial's Back-to-School Rewards Credit Card. This card allows you to earn 3X rewards on all back-to-school purchases and offers lower monthly payments with "Buy Now, Pay Later" options for large items. Plus, you can transfer your existing credit card balances with higher interest rates and enjoy a 0% intro APR for 12 months.

Shop Around and Leverage Technology

Don't be afraid to compare prices online and in-store. Many retailers offer competitive back-to-school deals, and online coupons and promo codes can significantly slash your bill. Download apps from your favorite stores to stay updated on sales and loyalty programs.

Plan Your Attack

Once you have your school supply list, create a budget and stick to it. Prioritize essential items and factor in sales tax and any shipping costs. Involve your children in the planning process. It teaches valuable budgeting skills and makes them more responsible with their belongings.

The Bottom Line

Back-to-school shopping doesn't have to break the bank. By planning strategically and adopting some smart spending habits, you can ensure your children are well-equipped for the new school year while keeping your finances healthy.

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